Metro Manila, Philippines – Education Secretary Sonny Angara assured immediate assistance to victims of the deadly school shooting in Tacloban City, saying the Department of Education (DepEd) is responding to reports that at least one victim initially faced difficulties being admitted to a hospital due to a lack of deposit.
In an interview on NewsWatch Plus, Angara said senior DepEd officials were dispatched to Tacloban and instructed to prioritize the needs of affected families.
“Nagdadala sila ng konting assistance doon sa mga na-hospital kasi nabalitaan namin ayaw daw tanggapin ‘yung isang biktima dahil walang ma-deposit,” he said on Monday, June 22.
[Translation: They are bringing assistance to those hospitalized because we received reports that one victim was allegedly not admitted because there was no deposit.]
The education chief said DepEd would shoulder the expenses to treat the victims.
“Sabi namin, advance na muna ‘yung pera, kami na bahala. Huwag na problemahin ‘yun,” he said.
[Translation: We said we will advance the money and take care of it. That should no longer be a concern.]
Angara said Undersecretary Malcolm Garma and Assistant Secretary Dexter Galban were sent to Tacloban, while he himself is en route to the city as well.
The secretary said DepEd is coordinating with the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, local government units and law enforcement agencies to assist victims, families and school personnel affected by the attack.
“Kung anong kaya,” he said.
[Translation: Whatever assistance we can provide.]
Angara said the department is arranging psychosocial and mental health support for students, teachers and school officials coping with the tragedy.
He noted that even school administrators were struggling to process the incident.
“Yung principal, in shock din sila. Umiyak na siya,” he said
[Translation: The principal was also in shock. She was crying.]
Angara said DepEd would deploy guidance counselors but acknowledged more support may be needed given the number of affected students and teachers.
The shooting at San Jose National High School killed three people and injured several others, according to initial reports.
